TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Hamilton, Lafayette and Madison counties today, Sept. 6, to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The centers will remain open until further notice.

Locations:

• Hamilton County: 1153 NW US Hwy 41, Jasper, FL 32052, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, FL 32066, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mon-Sun
• Madison County: Career Source North Florida, 705 E Base St., Madison, FL 32340, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun 

Previously opened:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, FL 32628, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents can visit any center. More centers will open soon. 

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Oct. 30, 2023.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Maine to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm and flooding on June 29, 2023.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by a severe storm and flooding in Franklin County.  

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

William F. Roy has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state.

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and straight-line winds on July 18-21, 2023.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and straight-line winds in Fayette, Henry, Shelby and Tipton counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Yolanda J. Jackson has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state.

WILLISTON, Vt. — The Montpelier Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Wednesday, September 6, 2023. The center is currently open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at this location:

Vermont College of Fine Arts
36 College St. 
Montpelier, VT 05602

Other recovery centers remain open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sunday):

Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676

Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

Barton Memorial Building 
17 Village Square 
Barton, VT 05822

Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall 
131 College Hill Road
Johnson, VT 05656

Cabot Town Hall
3084 Main St.
Cabot, VT 05647

Wardsboro Town Hall
99 Main St.
Wardsboro, VT 05355

FEMA operates Disaster Recovery Centers based on where they are needed most. FEMA works closely with state and municipal partners to determine those sites. Once a location begins to see a significant drop in application visits, FEMA and the state coordinate to determine the closing date.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs, and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). 

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

You don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 12, 2023.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

For the latest information on Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion1, the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA, or Vermont Emergency Management on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.

WASHINGTON -- On Friday, FEMA’s Ready Campaign launched the 20th annual National Preparedness Month which is recognized each September.

The wildfires in Hawaii and Hurricane Idalia are a reminder of the importance for individuals, families and communities to prepare for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time. 

On Aug. 31, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. issued a National Preparedness Month proclamation, acknowledging the importance of building a nation more prepared and resilient in the face of more frequent and severe disasters the country has endured in the last few years. 

FEMA and the Ready Campaign are honored to partner with this year’s Congressional co-chairs to spread the message of preparedness. We thank this bi-partisan team for their work to keep Americans safe.

“Rising water levels, wildfires, and extreme flooding continue to take lives, put communities at risk, and cause billions of dollars in damages. National Preparedness Month is an important way to raise awareness of how families and businesses can prepare for disasters, and how FEMA resources can help everyone be more resilient.” 

- Chairman Gary Peters of Michigan, Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee

“Disaster can strike at any time and place, from our coastal communities to the plains of the Midwest to every corner of the United States. While we can’t predict every disaster, we can always have a plan and be prepared. September is National Preparedness Month, serving as a critical reminder that we must be ready year-round to protect our homes, communities, businesses, and loved ones from the devastation caused by disasters of all types. I encourage all Americans to take advantage of the disaster preparedness resources and guidance from FEMA and other state and local emergency officials.” 

- Chairman Sam Graves of Missouri, House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee

“Climate change is increasing extreme weather events across the nation. Recent examples include the Maui wildfires -- the worst wildfires in over 100 years -- and extreme heat that has impacted millions nationwide. Just this March, a tornado outbreak devastated communities across Mississippi, including in my district. To face this growing threat, it is imperative that the federal government works with its partners to increase preparedness for disasters at all levels of government, which includes ensuring that those who are disproportionally impacted by disasters -- including racial minorities, rural areas, low-income communities, tribes, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and children -- are included in emergency preparation, response, and recovery. I am honored to serve as Co-Chair during the 2023 National Preparedness Month and look forward to working with FEMA and DHS to ensure there is more equity in emergency management." 

- U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, Ranking Member, House Committee on Homeland Security

“From tornadoes to intense heat waves, natural disasters are becoming more frequent, more severe, and more expensive due to climate change. Seniors and minority communities are especially vulnerable. Raising awareness of their needs and having an equitable approach are vital components of disaster mitigation and recovery. National Preparedness Month provides an opportunity for people nationwide to plan, prepare, and protect their communities from future disasters. As Ranking Member of the House subcommittee that oversees FEMA, I’m proud to uplift its good work and promote its efforts to step in at such critical times to help rebuild lives shattered by disaster.” 

- U.S. Rep. Dina Titus of Nevada, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management

“With natural disasters increasing in frequency and intensity, investments we make today in readiness and resilience will determine the outcome of our response tomorrow. In New Orleans, we have experience with extreme weather events and what I have learned from my time on the ground is that we must instill a culture of preparedness at all levels of government – while also ensuring that our response and recovery to disasters is equitable. I am proud to serve as a Co-Chair of the 2023 National Preparedness Month and look forward to working with FEMA to promote equitable disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.”

 - U.S. Rep. Troy A. Carter Sr. of Louisiana, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology

FEMA recently announced an agreement formalizing the partnership with the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. This agreement recognizes the importance of including those who provide critical support for family or friends into the conversation about emergency preparedness.

In June, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced this year’s theme: preparing older adults and their caregivers ahead of disasters. 

By emphasizing the theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” Ready.gov encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps: 

• Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe.
• Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs.
• Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support.

FEMA urges our partners, emergency managers and all those who work with and support older adult communities to access the new webpage available in English and Spanish languages at Ready.gov/older-adults and Ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores, We’ve also created a toolkit in English and Spanish with key messaging, graphics and talking points to help our partners uplift and amplify this year’s National Preparedness Month theme.

Last year, as part of FEMA’s ongoing approach to advance accessibility and cultural competency in boosting the nation’s preparedness, FEMA's Ready Campaign and the Ad Council created PSAs developed specifically to reach Black and African American communities. The year prior to that, the theme was “Prepare to Protect” and was designed to resonate with Latino communities.

 For more information on how to prepare yourself, your loved ones and your community, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov.

TALLAHASSEE – The State of Florida and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Dixie County today, Sept. 5, to provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia. The center will remain open until further notice.  

Location: 

Dixie County

Dixie County Public Library

16328 SE US-19

Cross City, FL 32628

Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sun

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. More centers will open in the coming days. 

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Oct. 30, 2023.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

The funds will also benefit training and work programs for inmates

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded nearly $24.5 million for permanent repairs to the facilities of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (DCR) due to damage caused by Hurricane María.

The funds will address damage to correctional institutions, as well as structures where inmates receive rehabilitation services.

“As the agency responsible for providing custody and rehabilitation to the correctional population, the Department needs facilities that allow its staff to provide quality services. The agency’s funding seeks to support the standards of the correctional system, while preserving the health and safety of inmates, employees and visitors,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.

The Guayama Correctional Complex, which guards about 1,200 inmates, is one of the DCR’s main projects. The facilities have over $11.3 million for roof treatment to prevent leaks, acrylic domes to protect equipment against wind pressure, replacement of the air conditioners and solar panels, and surge protectors for the electric gates, among other work. Repairs will consider mitigation measures for future atmospheric events.

According to DCR Secretary Ana I. Escobar Pabón, the damage to these structures after Hurricane María affected educational, medical, recreational, religious and socio-penal services. Escobar Pabón reported that, now that these funds have been allocated, the DCR will begin the development of its projects together with the Puerto Rico Infrastructure Financing Authority (AFI, in Spanish) and the Puerto Rico General Services Administration (GSA).

“FEMA’s funds allow us to provide continuity to the services and programs offered by the DCR to the confined population and employees. Meanwhile, these funds help us to immediately address the consequences of an atmospheric event in a correctional system and thus comply with the standards regulated by law,” said the secretary.

Another award for the Department is for the Arecibo Correctional Institution in the Florida neighborhood, which has over 200 inmates. Following an allocation of nearly $2.4 million, most of the work will focus on repairs with mitigation measures: they will reinforce the fences and waterproof the roof — to mitigate the impact of flying debris and prevent leaks from heavy rains — and install voltage surge protectors for electrical equipment.

Repairs to the Training and Labor Program Facilities

The DCR secretary explained that occupational workshops are the most welcoming programs for inmates, as they provide them with self-sufficiency and allow them to reintegrate into the community once they have served their sentence.

Along with this need, FEMA also awarded funds to the DCR for the Training and Work Program building in Bayamón. The program offers training and business development, with an emphasis on cooperative, self-management and employment organizations. Workshops include woodworking, upholstery, sewing, car washing, and solid waste collection, among other services.

The agency’s figure of about $250,000 will cover repairs to the woodworking and welding areas. Part of the work will mitigate damage to the structure by anchoring the exhaust fans and sealing the roof to protect it from impacts due to flying debris.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said, “I am confident that these important projects that will give resiliency to the infrastructure of the Department of Correction and Rehabilitation at the island level, will soon begin their implementation. As I recently expressed to the DCR secretary, our commitment at COR3 is to continue working together with her team, joining efforts to advance these and other reconstruction projects.”

To date, FEMA has awarded over $31 billion for nearly 10,800 Public Assistance projects directed towards the reconstruction of a more resilient Puerto Rico. 

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

ATLANTA – Homeowners and renters who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia in Pinellas County can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Pinellas County joins Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Suwannee and Taylor counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

ATLANTA – Columbia, Gilchrist, Hernando, Jefferson, Madison and Pasco counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Idalia. 

Individuals and households who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia in Columbia, Gilchrist, Hernando, Jefferson, Madison and Pasco counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

These counties join Citrus, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee and Taylor counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app for smartphones or call 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, sevendays a week.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

ATLANTA – Disaster survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application. 

If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the Helpline will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Hurricane Idalia in Florida. They carry official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. 

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. 

Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA inspectors will have your FEMA application number.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information. 

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department or contact the Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. 

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at:  StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: 202-212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov. 

ATLANTA – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are working in communities impacted by Hurricane Idalia to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and provide referrals to other disaster resources.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. FEMA personnel never ask for money. 

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual lines are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

FEMA home inspectors will be in communities to meet with applicants to verify losses. FEMA will contact the homeowner to arrange a time for the inspection. These inspectors carry photo ID badges and will have the applicant’s application number. 

FEMA personnel and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never ask for money for services. There are no fees involved in applying to FEMA or SBA.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

Vermont residents affected by July’s severe storms, flooding, mudslides and landslides now have until Oct. 12, 2023 to apply for FEMA assistance.

This does not mean you should delay applying – the sooner you apply, the sooner FEMA can process your claim.

If you had storm-caused expenses and live or own a business in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham or Windsor County, FEMA assistance can provide grants and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

To apply in person, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, where FEMA and SBA specialists can answer questions, help upload documents and refer you to available resources. Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday (closed Sundays) at the following locations:

• Washington County
  • Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
  • Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
  • Cabot Town Hall, 3084 Main St., Cabot, VT 05647
  • Vermont College of Fine Arts, 36 College St., Montpelier, VT 05602
• Orleans County: Barton Memorial Building, 17 Village Square, Barton, VT 05822
• Windsor County: Springfield Health Center, 100 River St., Springfield, VT 05156 – closing 6 p.m. September 2
• Windham County: Wardsboro Town Hall, 99 Main St., Wardsboro, VT 05355
• Lamoille County: Northern VT University – McClelland Hall, 131 College Hill Road, Johnson, VT 05843
  • Centers will be closed on Labor Day and will reopen with normal hours Sept. 5.

HONOLULU – A Disaster Recovery Center will open Friday, Sept. 1, in Lāhainā to help residents who were affected by the wildfires learn about local, state and federal assistance programs.

In keeping with Native Hawaiian tradition, a kumu, or community elder, blesses all facilities before the official opening, and the new Disaster Recovery Center in Lāhainā had its blessing Aug. 31.

You do not need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to register for FEMA assistance. However, Disaster Recovery Centers are open to those who would like to speak, in person, to a FEMA specialist or representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and the American Red Cross.

The Lāhainā Disaster Recovery Center is located at:

Lāhainā Civic Center Gymnasium

1840 Honoapi‘ilani Highway

Lāhainā, HI 96761

Opens: 8 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1

Regular hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

FEMA mitigation advisers will be at the Disaster Recovery Centers to offer tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from disaster-related damage. Most of the information provided is geared toward do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Specialists from the SBA, which provides low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes, will also be at the Disaster Recovery Centers. For more information, please visit https://www.sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires.

In addition to applying for FEMA assistance, survivors are encouraged to register with the Red Cross at 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or speak to a representative at the recovery center. The Red Cross is providing financial assistance, temporary housing in hotels and other services to people, including survivors who are not eligible for some FEMA programs.

Disaster Recovery Center specialists can also answer questions about assistance programs as well as clarify next steps and give helpful information. 

Here are the ways to register for FEMA assistance:

• Go to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6
• You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center. Find one here: fema.gov/drc

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov and fema.gov/disaster/4724. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema.

The U.S. Department of Labor has extended the application deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). DUA is a federal program designed to help people who lost their jobs because of a natural disaster. This program gives temporary income to those who don’t qualify for regular Unemployment Insurance (UI).

Qualified applicants in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties now have until Sept. 29, 2023, to apply for benefits.

The new deadline of Sept. 29 provides uniformity for all Vermonters in the designated counties. The state encourages those eligible to apply for the DUA benefits as soon as possible.

Before you can apply for DUA, you must apply for regular UI benefits first. If you do not qualify, the Vermont Department of Labor will provide you with the application for DUA.

If you believe you may qualify for UI or DUA, take the following steps:

• File an initial Unemployment Insurance claim online or call 877-214-3330 Monday through Friday. Based on your circumstances the Department of Labor will determine if you are eligible for regular UI or DUA.
• If you are eligible for regular UI, you will need to log in to the regular UI Online Claimant portal at Vermont Department of Labor Claimant Portal each week you are unemployed and submit a claim.
• If you are eligible for DUA, you will receive instructions on how to file for a weekly claim for each week you are unemployed due to the disaster.

You will be asked on the initial claim form if you are able and available for work. If you are unable to work due to the July storms, you should select “yes” – if it weren’t for the disaster, you would be able and available to work.

• You were unemployed for a week after the disaster started (July 7, 2023);
• You can’t get to your job;
• Your job doesn’t exist anymore because of the disaster;
• You are now the main supporter of your family because the head of your household died in the disaster;
• You can’t work because you got hurt in the disaster; or
• You couldn’t start working because of the disaster.

• Social Security number;
• Name and address of your last employer;
• If you worked in another state during the past two years, have the name and address of the employer;
• If you are self-employed, have proof of self-employment for the past two years; and
• If you were scheduled to work but could not work due to the disaster, have the name and address of the employer and date you were scheduled to work.

For more information about how to apply, visit the Vermont Labor Department’s website at labor.vermont.gov/dua.

WASHINGTON -- More than a dozen federal agencies and departments have been mobilized across the Biden-Harris Administration to assist state, county, nonprofit and private sector partners to help people in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina jumpstart their recovery after Hurricane Idalia.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visited Florida on Thursday to assess the damage in the affected areas. FEMA has deployed more than 300 personnel to the region, part of a federal force of more than 1,500 across four states. President Joe Biden said Thursday that he plans to travel to Florida Saturday morning.

“I'm here today to join the governor and see first-hand the impacts on the communities so we can determine what level of assistance and what other programs we'll need to bring in to help support those people that were in the storm's path,” Criswell said Thursday.

“We are going to make sure that we always have the resources here from the federal family to support the current efforts, but also the ongoing recovery efforts that may be needed in these communities that were impacted by Hurricane Idalia,” Criswell said.

Prior to the hurricane’s landfall, FEMA staged commodities and critical supplies, including more than 1.3 million meals and 1.6 million liters of water available pending requests from states. Additional meals, water, tarps and toddler kits are in transit.

The entire federal family is working hard to address the needs of residents affected by the hurricane. More information is available on the Idalia web page at USA.gov.

• The U.S. Coast Guard is performing post-storm recovery efforts and ensuring that ports are safe to reopen. Urban Search and Rescue teams from across the country have been deployed.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers deployed teams and resources to assist the states with infrastructure, power assessment and temporary roofing requirements as needed.
• The Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency for the state of Florida on Wednesday to help health care providers and suppliers meet emergency health needs of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. National Disaster Medical System teams have also been deployed to support medical needs in affected areas.
• The U.S. Department of Transportation is working with states to make sure air, roads, rail and maritime transportation is safe and operable.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture has taken actions to help people receive the food assistance they need under numerous federal programs, provided food safety guidance, and risk management and disaster assistance options for agricultural producers.
• The Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency fuel waiver on Wednesday to address fuel supply shortages.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has shared numerous storm forecasts, maps and other resources to keep people informed and safe.
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is urging anyone experiencing emotional distress related the disaster to call or text the 24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Crisis Line is supporting veterans in crisis. Call 988, then Press 1; text message (838255); or chat online. Those receiving care through the VA can get VA mental health services and/or engage with a mental health specialist at a local VA facility.
• The U.S. Department of Energy has deployed responders to coordinate closely with industry, interagency and state partners to support storm response.
• The Department of Interior Fish and Wildlife Service teams have cleared roads and downed trees at its facilities. Bureau of Land Management officers are supporting search and rescue teams in Florida.
• The Federal Communications Commission is monitoring the areas impacted by Hurricane Idalia and offers guidance for communicating during and after the emergency.

In addition to federal efforts, affected states have been sharing local information and resources to help residents stay safe and find immediate assistance.

FEMA’s volunteer partners have also been providing vital support to affected areas:

• More than 400 American Red Cross disaster workers deployed to provide comfort, support and relief to survivors. An additional 200 workers are traveling to the affected areas to support sheltering and relief efforts. 
• The Salvation Army is providing meals and distributing supplies through mobile feeding units in affected areas, with more units on the way. 

WASHINGTON -- September marks National Preparedness Month, the annual recognition to remind everyone in America how important it is for individuals, families and communities to prepare for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time. 

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. issued a National Preparedness Month proclamation, acknowledging the importance of building a nation more prepared and resilient in the face of more frequent and severe disasters the country has endured in the last few years. 

Earlier this year, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced this year’s theme would focus on preparing older adults and their caregivers ahead of disasters. 

“September is National Preparedness Month, and during our month-long campaign to emphasize the importance of being ready when disaster strikes, FEMA is focused this year on providing information and resources to empower older adults as they make their own preparations,” said Administrator Criswell. “We are also underscoring the importance of involving caregivers in these conversations, as they are instrumental in our efforts to help this vital community before, during and after disasters.”

This year’s theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps: 

• Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe.
• Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs.
• Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support.

In recognition of this year’s special focus on older adults, Administrator Criswell signed an agreement today that formalizes the partnership between FEMA and the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers. 

“Emergency preparedness is part of the Carter family legacy, with President Jimmy Carter creating FEMA by executive order in 1979. With today’s signing, we honor that legacy by strengthening our partnership with the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers,” said Criswell. “This agreement will enable us to leverage each other’s vast support networks to further support older adults when preparing for disasters and point caregivers to essential resources as well.” 

“Bringing caregivers into the conversation about emergency preparedness is the goal of this new partnership,” said Dr. Jennifer Olsen, Chief Executive Officer for the Rosalynn Carter Institute. “We want older adults and their caregivers to know they are not alone before, during, or after a disaster, and for caregivers to be seen and supported critical partners in emergency preparedness. When caregivers and older adults are empowered to work together to prepare for disasters, they are better able to overcome challenges and manage stress.”

Criswell urged FEMA’s partners, emergency managers and all those who work with and support older adult communities to access the new webpage available in English and Spanish languages at Ready.gov/older-adults and Ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores for preparedness messaging, graphics and resources. FEMA created a toolkit with key messaging, graphics and talking points to help our partners uplift and amplify this year’s National Preparedness Month theme.

 Last year, as part of FEMA’s ongoing approach to advance accessibility and cultural competency in boosting the nation’s preparedness, FEMA's Ready Campaign and the Ad Council created PSAs developed specifically to reach Black and African American communities. The year prior to that, the theme was “Prepare to Protect” and was designed to resonate with Latino communities.

 For more information on how to prepare yourself, your loved ones and your community, visit Ready.gov. 

PHILADELPHIA – What steps are you taking to be prepared? This September, join the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) during National Preparedness Month in preparing yourself, your family, your neighbors, and your communities for disasters and emergencies.

National Preparedness Month is an annual opportunity to reinforce the message that taking a few simple steps can go a long way in being ready for all kinds of hazards that are common to our region, including hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, fires, and more.

Preparedness is for everyone, but this year’s National Preparedness Month campaign is focused specifically on preparing older adults and their caregivers. Older adults may have specific needs after a disaster. According to AARP, several factors make older adults more vulnerable to the impacts of disasters, which include, but are not limited to:

• Increased likelihood of mobility difficulties;
• Increased lack of access to cell phones and internet access; and
• An increased lack of financial means to prepare or relocate.

“A growing body of evidence shows that older adults are disproportionately impacted by weather-related emergencies and natural disasters,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Now is the time to consider what you can do to be prepared, or help a friend, neighbor, or loved one take steps to get prepared too.”

FEMA’s Ready campaign has resources, including simple, low-cost tips, to help older adults and their caregivers address these challenges. Some of these tips include:

• Plan for your transportation if you need help evacuating.
• Include items that meet your individual needs, such as medicines, medical supplies, batteries and chargers, in your emergency supply kit.
• Make copies of Medicaid, Medicare, and other insurance cards.
• Make sure at least one person in your support network has an extra key to your home, knows where you keep your emergency supplies, and knows how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine.
• If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify back-up service providers.
• If you have a communication disability, consider carrying printed cards or storing information on your devices to inform first responders and others how to communicate with you.
• Don’t forget your pets or service animals. Not all shelters accept pets, so plan for alternatives. Consider asking loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area if they can help with your animals.

Visit ready.gov/older-adults and ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores for more information.

FEMA Region 3 will be sharing more tips on how to prepare throughout the month of September on our social media. Follow us on X (@FEMARegion3) or find us on LinkedIn or Nextdoor and share your tips and actions you’re taking to prepare with the hashtag #PreparewithR3.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.  

Follow us on X at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3 

FEMA “Save Your Family’s Treasures” preservation teams will continue their local demonstrations on how to safely handle and salvage your damaged items, using techniques taught by Heritage Emergency National Task Force conservation experts.

Preservation specialists are sharing ways on how to salvage storm-damaged family photos, artwork, textiles, media and other family treasures at the following dates and locations:

• 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Aug. 31 through Sept. 2, at Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
• 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 31 through Sept. 2, at Cabot Town Hall, 3085 Main St., Cabot, VT 05647

• 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Aug. 31 through Sept. 1; and
• 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sept. 2 and 3

FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution co-sponsor the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, a partnership of 62 national service organizations and federal agencies, to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies.

If you cannot attend the demonstrations, guidance and resources are available online at Save Your Family Treasures | FEMA.gov.

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Idalia beginning on Aug. 27, 2023, and continuing.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Citrus, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee and Taylor counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners jumpstart their recovery.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Citrus, Dixie, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee and Taylor. Additionally, this funding will be available at 100% of the eligible total costs for a period of 30 days of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Brett H. Howard has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

All Disaster Recovery Centers across Vermont will be closed Monday, Sept. 4, 2023, in observance of Labor Day.

They will reopen at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 5, and continue regular hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Here are the locations:

Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676

Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641

Barton Memorial Building 
17 Village Square 
Barton, VT 05822

Northern VT University -- McClelland Hall 
131 College Hill Road 
Johnson, VT 05656

Vermont College of Fine Arts University 
36 College St. 
Montpelier, VT 05602

Cabot Town Hall  
3084 Main St. 
Cabot, VT 05647

Wardsboro Town Hall 
99 Main St. 
Wardsboro, VT 05355